3 universities combatting the anesthesia shortage with new programs, expansions

From new programs to enrollment expansions, universities are racing to build a CRNA pipeline that the healthcare system increasingly depends on. 

Here are three universities that are adding new anesthesia programs or expanding existing ones, as reported by Becker’s since Aug. 5:

1. The University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson enrolled 16 registered nurses in the inaugural class of its new certified registered nurse anesthetist program this semester, launching Mississippi’s second academic pathway into the specialty.
2. The University of Alabama in Huntsville is planning to create a CRNA program, which would be the fourth in the state.
3. The Morgantown-based West Virginia University School of Nursing is increasing its Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthetist program from 15 to 20 students in each cohort.

At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.